Learning a new language can be daunting at first, and it is easy to give up before you've even begun. While there are many different routes you can take such as classes, videos, or apps, learning a language in the comfort of your own home with the help of websites and apps is by far the most effective strategy for success. Below are some helpful resources that will make your learning experience more manageable!
-Highlight text: If you're struggling to learn how to speak your chosen language fluently like me, it's frustrating when every sentence comes out garbled. That's why I love this website which provides tons of practice sentences with specific words highlighted so they're easier to read aloud. It doesn't have a lot of content, but the sentences are pumped out regularly which keeps things fresh.
-Shadowing: Whether you're learning English or another language, this technique is great for both listening comprehension and pronunciation. Simply listen to the audio of someone speaking your target language and speak out loud along with them. If you were learning Spanish, you might pick a short video of someone introducing themselves and repeat everything they say. This website allows you to plug in your headphones and use the microphone as an output so that you can listen in privacy.
-Free Language Apps: I've noticed that in recent years, many major companies have created apps for learning the basics of a language. Many of them are designed to be used on the go so you can practice phrases on the subway or while running errands. These are perfect for when you don't have access to a library or study space, just pull out your phone and start practicing! Keep in mind that these apps usually only have about 50 phrases per language, so they're quite limited.
-Language Exchange: If you're not ready to speak with native speakers but still want some speaking experience, I've found that language exchanges are a great alternative. Language exchanges help you connect with native speakers who all have the same goals as you. It's a great way to build relationships that will hopefully lead to more speaking opportunities. You'll get to practice your language skills by interacting with real people, not computers.
-Flashcards: Learning the basics of a language is all about memorizing words and phrases, which is why flashcards are a great way to stay motivated and work towards fluency. There are many different types of flashcards, such as traditional paper ones but there's also an app for that! If you're interested in learning Irish, I recommend this website made specifically for people learning Irish who want to learn how to speak it in their own home.
Tips in Learning a New Language
If you're having trouble learning or want to strengthen your skills, I've gathered a list of helpful resources that will help you along the way!
1. Download the language on your phone so you can look up any words or phrases! It's also fun to use them to translate funny sentences from English into your language.
2. Practice the language with friends and family, even if they are just learning it too. That way, everyone has fun while practicing and you learn more in a casual setting. Practice makes perfect!
3. At first, don't feel like you have to speak fluently to someone else. Like me, you might be too nervous to speak with native speakers. If you're not comfortable speaking with people yet, try reading out loud or writing a story in your target language!
4. It's okay to make mistakes! You'll learn from them, and that's how you grow as a speaker. If you're self-conscious about making mistakes, try practicing with a friend so they can help correct your pronunciation and give you suggestions!
5. Find fun ways to practice your skills such as using it on social media or just taking the time every day to talk for 5 minutes. On days where you don't feel energetic enough for heavy studying, give yourself permission to take breaks and take it easy!
Conclusion
Learning a new language is definitely not easy and you won't be fluent overnight, but using these effective resources should help you become more comfortable speaking your target language much faster than if you rely on studying in the classroom. Eventually I hope to make my own website for all of those readers who, like me, want to learn a language in their free time!
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Been learning Spanish while being on quarantine at home :)